Introduced in April 2012 by San Francisco-based Dolby Laboratories, Atmos allows filmmakers to place or move specific sounds, such as a raindrop or closing door, anywhere in the movie theater. Filmmakers say the technology creates a more realistic sound experience in movie theaters.

"Just as 3D offers added visual dimension, Dolby Atmos creates a virtual reality of sound, which fully immerses the audience in the aural journey," Alfonso Cuarón, "Gravity" director and screenwriter, said in a statement. "There is no sound in space, so we incorporated music as an integral element of the movie. The music was composed and designed for a surround experience — different harmonies emerging from the different speakers around the room, constantly moving, crashing and blending to create a dynamic experience."

Opening nationwide on Friday, the film will be released in 3-D, 2-D and IMAX versions. Warner Bros. and Dolby did not say how many theaters would screen the movie in the Dolby format.

So far, more than 300 Dolby Atmos screens have been installed or committed to in 30 countries, with more than 85 exhibitor partners.

At least 75 films from 10 different countries have been or are scheduled to be released with Dolby Atmos, including Disney's animated movie "Brave," "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" and "Elysium."